821.796/8–2446: Telegram
The Ambassador in Colombia (Wiley) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5:30 p.m.]
606. I had interview with President Ospina Pérez yesterday. I told him word had reached me that Minister of War37 had issued instructions temporarily to relicense three ex-Scadta pilots as co-pilots for employment by Colombian airlines. I expressed fear this was intended as first step to reactivate large group of German pilots and mechanics still in Colombia. I explained our concern over the defense of the Panama Canal and the western Caribbean, and added I could visualize with apprehension headlines in American press to the effect that one of first acts of new conservative administration had been to relicense notorious ex-Scadta pilots, mechanics and airfield managers.
The President is very sensitive to criticism and as I handed him list of ex-Scadta pilots he said this was the first he had heard of the matter and he would at once consult the Minister of War.
[Page 664]On August 27 I will also send the President a list of ex-Scadta mechanics and airport managers. The situation is somewhat complicated because several of the pilots have taken Colombian citizenship and have married Colombians. I shall also discuss the matter with Foreign Minister38 and other officials and keep Dept informed.39 I believe it important to keep if possible Colombian aviation free of these more than dubious elements particularly since both Taca and Avianca are seeking permission to enter Balboa.40